Veterinary

What is Veterinary?

Veterinary refers to the medical field focused on the health, treatment, and welfare of animals. It covers the prevention, diagnosis, and management of diseases that affect animals of all kinds, from pets and livestock to wildlife and zoo animals. Professionals working in this field are known as veterinarians or veterinary surgeons, and they play a vital role in animal care, public health, and food safety.

Sectors Included in Veterinary

The veterinary field in the UK is diverse and includes several key sectors, such as:

• Small Animal Practice: Focuses on pets such as dogs, cats, and rabbits.
• Large Animal Practice: Involves farm animals like cattle, sheep, and pigs.
• Equine Practice: Specialises in the care and treatment of horses.
• Exotic and Zoo Animal Care: Deals with wildlife, reptiles, birds, and zoo animals.
• Public Health and Research: Includes government work, laboratory research, and food safety inspection roles.
• Veterinary Education: Involves teaching and training future vets and veterinary nurses.

Veterinary Body in the UK

The main governing body for the veterinary profession in the UK is the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). The RCVS regulates veterinary surgeons and nurses, ensuring they meet professional standards, maintain ethical conduct, and continue developing their skills through ongoing education.

Can I Join Veterinary Without Any Qualifications?

To become a qualified veterinary surgeon in the UK, you must complete an approved veterinary degree from a university accredited by the RCVS. However, if you don’t have these qualifications, there are still opportunities to work in the veterinary field in support roles. You could start as a veterinary care assistant, receptionist, or animal technician while gaining experience and studying part-time towards relevant qualifications.

Find Veterinary Jobs with MedMatch Vets

If you are a qualified or newly graduated vet looking for your next role, you can find and apply for veterinary jobs through MedMatch Vets. We specialise in matching veterinary professionals with practices across the UK, offering guidance, job support, and access to both permanent and locum positions.

Take the next step in your veterinary career with MedMatch Vets and explore the latest opportunities today.